Art - Goût - Beauté, Feuillets de l' élégance féminine, Novembre 1928, No. 99, 9e Année, p. 20 1928

Editor: This is "Art - Goût - Beauté, Feuillets de l'élégance féminine, Novembre 1928, No. 99, 9e Année, p. 20", made in 1928 by J. Dory. It seems to be some kind of mixed-media fashion plate. It has a distinctive Art Deco feel and showcases several women in different outfits. What stands out to you when you look at this work? Curator: I'm immediately struck by how this image participates in a dialogue with earlier forms of female representation, while also gesturing towards a more modern ideal. Notice how the elongated figures, with their flattened perspectives, echo those found in ancient Egyptian art. But these aren’t goddesses; they’re fashionable women, their status signaled by the latest textiles and designs. Editor: Interesting! I hadn’t thought about ancient Egyptian art. Are the clothes themselves symbolic? Curator: Absolutely! Consider the short hemlines and looser silhouettes. These weren't just stylish choices, they signified liberation, a break from the restrictive corsets and heavy fabrics of the past. The "garçonne" look, as it was known, embodies a modern woman, one who embraced athleticism and independence. Do you notice any other repeating motifs? Editor: The hats, definitely! Almost everyone is wearing one. Curator: Exactly. Hats, in this era, functioned as potent signifiers of social status, and here, they create a sense of uniformity amongst these paragons of female elegance. It is interesting to consider what's being subtly communicated about idealised femininity here, in terms of social roles, power, and aspiration. Editor: So it's not just about the clothes, it's about the entire cultural context of the time. It’s fascinating how a single image can be packed with so much historical meaning. Curator: Precisely. These visual symbols continue to resonate, reminding us of the ongoing evolution of cultural identity.